5 ways to get started with color blocking

FRESH AS A FLOWER. Color blocking keeps you looking polished from day to night, the same effect of an all-black ensemble. Photo from the Marks and Spencer Spring 2014 collection courtesy of Visions and Expressions

Easy tips on how to wear color without going overboard

MANILA, Philippines - I love colors, whether they are in solids, prints, pastels, or other new pantones

available. Colors allow us to blend in or stand out, to express how we feel or to help us channel an emotion we want to feel (yes, I am a believer in color therapy).

Color blocking in fashion is a way of styling oneself using colors that still allows us to look prim, proper, and polished while allowing us to express or share our favorite color of the season.

Sounds complicated? It's not. If you've yet to try color-blocking your wardrobe (It's summer! take advantage of the colorful vibe!), here are 5 simple ways to get you started:

1. Pair color with denim
Chambray is a classic summer trend, and can neutralize or soften any loud color. Think of how your favorite red top always looks good with denim. Now replace that red top with another color, and another, and another. Don't stop!

2. Pair color with black
If you want to color block at work but don't want to stick out like a sore thumb in a sea of blacks, navy blues, grays, and whites, then wear a colorful piece with a black piece, and use black accessories (including shoes). This works when you have a presentation and want all eyes on you.

3. Go monochromatic
Wearing monochromatic from head to toe subdues the impact of colors, especially if you have bright pieces. This also makes you look slimmer. Wear accessories and shoes in the same color hue, or opt for neutrals like nude, champagne, gray, and beige.

4. Pair color with print
This is a great way to wear neon and acid brights. The print takes some of the attention away from the loud color, and adds more depth to your outfit. It is also an interesting touch. Again, with such a busy outfit, keep your shoes and accessories simple -- you wouldn't want to look like a clown!

5. Pair color with texture
Wear color in the evening or to more formal events by adding glitter -- literally and figuratively. Aside from pairing color pieces with embellished ones, you can also go for pieces that use different fabrics like leatherette, velvet, silk, or anything sheer. Use one statement accessory and you're good to go.

6. Don't forget pastels
Bold and bright colors liven the place, while pastels relax and cool you down. Pair pastels with each other, or wear them according to my first five tips, and you'll see your wardrobe expand to countless outfits. If you've invested in good accessories and footwear, all you have to do is mix and match.

DAY TO NIGHT. Color block your outfit and you won't need to change anymore if you want to hang out after work. Photo from the Marks and Spencer Spring 2014 collection courtesy of Visions and Expressions

Share your summer outfits with me. Tweet and use the hash tags #CoffeeWithKai #ootd. I want to see what you guys come up with. :) - #CoffeeWithKai